People can't afford to stay home fearing coronavirus: Patel

Ahmedabad, May 14 () Indicating more relaxations inthe next phase of the coronavirus-induced lockdown, GujaratDeputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel on Thursday said economicactivity is also important and people can not afford to sit athome now fearing the pandemic.

Talking to the media here, Patel said the stategovernment is in favour of granting more relaxations in curbs,in place since March 25, so that people hit by the lockdowncan restart their jobs and businesses.

"If we keep people away from their jobs andprofessions, it will prove catastrophic for them and theirfamilies. Even state's economic condition will deteriorate ifthis situation persists.

"Our government has taken steps to promote economicactivity and it gave certain relaxations earlier," he said.

The current phase of the nationwide lockdown will cometo an end on May 17 and the Centre has already indicated aboutits extension, but with a 'new look'.

Patel indicated that the BJP government in the statemay consider giving more relaxations while continuing itsfight against coronavirus, which has so far infected nearly9,600 people in Gujarat.

"Economic activity is also important. Now,people cannot afford to sit at home fearing coronavirus. Our governmentis also of the same opinion.

"Its time to help people in earning their livelihood,"said Patel. PJT PDRSY RSY